What West Ham must pay to sign Taylor Harwood-Bellis as Southampton demands shared

West Ham United are in the market for a centre-back, with Southampton's Taylor Harwood-Bellis among the options.

The English centre-back has been linked with making the switch to London Stadium from the South Coast this summer.

Benfica previously had a bid rejected with West Ham's interest mentioned then, and now more developments on his future have emerged.

As the transfer window nears its end, the Saints' demands have now emerged for their captain.

That is with another bid lodged following Benfica's, with Aston Villa now entering the fray.

But for the Hammers, it means that the work of other interested sides is doing all the work for them.

The transfer structure Southampton want for West Ham target Taylor Harwood-Bellis

There have been plenty of centre-back links this summer so far, with the Irons keeping close tabs on that side of the market.

A return for Axel Disasi to West Ham has been mooted, but the E20 outfit would likely have to wait until the end of the window.

The Frenchman would prefer to remain in England's top flight rather than the Championship.

Meanwhile, Jean-Clair Todibo agreeing terms to leave West Ham only further intensifies their centre-back needs.

Now, according to journalist Jack Rosser, who reports for The Sun, the Saints have rejected an £18million bid from Aston Villa for West Ham target Harwood-Bellis.

But more importantly, the information shares that for any deal to be agreed, the Championship side want a minimum of £25m without any add-ons.

It is quite a steep price, but the Hammers have already broken the Championship transfer record to sign Arne Engels this summer.

Why West Ham can't let Harwood-Bellis slip out of their fingers

West Ham do face tough competition for Harwood-Bellis, but it remains to be seen if Aston Villa are willing to increase their offer.

Either way, it is a strong sign that two teams set for European football this season have taken such an interest in the 24-year-old.

If the Irons can find the money for him, they must not hesistate, especially with him having vast experience in promotion battles.

And that could be a useful asset for Nuno Espirito Santo's side this season as they look for instant promotion back to the top flight.

Perhaps the exit of Todibo could open the door for more funds or wiggle room in terms of the wage bill to finance this deal.